Development Counsellors International

We’re celebrating a whole year of being a Woman-owned agency and reflecting on what a transformative year it’s been. The women who lead our agency with a #PassionForPlaces inspire us daily. Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, we want to hear who inspires you. Shout them out in the comments! ??

In late 2024, Visit Lisboa took a proactive approach to an emerging challenge: North American homebuyers were driving up the cost of living, displacing local residents. At the same time, research indicated that many U.S. and Canadian travelers were rethinking their traditional winter escape to Florida. To capitalize on this shift, DCI worked with #VisitLisboa to spotlight the city to North American snowbirds. Through a curated press trip, we secured six top-tier travel trade outlets to explore the city's apartment hotel options and its appeal for long-term stays. The result? Strategic editorial coverage that positioned Lisbon as the smarter alternative to traditional sunbelt destinations. Lisbon isn’t just a stopover—it’s an invitation to stay awhile. Looking ahead to 2025, we’re excited to keep expanding this message to travelers who are looking for something new.

Is your region prepared for the coming talent shortage? As employers scramble for workers, cities and regions need powerful new tools to attract and retain talent. That’s where we come in: DCI recently partnered with Lightcast, combining our 60+ years of place marketing expertise with the best-in-class labor market intelligence. Swipe below to see our packages, and learn more: https://lnkd.in/gP6wqzd3??

Catching flights and gaining insights. ?? From Montréal to Sarasota to D.C. to New York to Austin and back, our team has had a busy start to the year strategizing with clients, presenting to industry peers and exploring our #PassionForPlaces.

I am in awe of this "next generation" of travel media and influencers. They have creative ideas, big dreams and the communication skills they need to get where they intend to go! The future of travel media is so bright! Thank you to Gia Perry, Kim Foo @thekimfoo, Karina Kopf @karinakopf, and Kayla Hui @thischinesegirlcaneat for joining me on stage at #DIMarCom25 to talk about the next generation of travel media. (And of course my colleague Hanna Gbordzoe who helped present Development Counsellors International research.) Destinations International Marketing Communications Summit sold out this year. Tip for PR pros, put it in your 2026 budget - and get the greenlight to register early - it's worth it!

Your destination deserves the spotlight—don’t let social media missteps dim the shine. VP of Social Media Hanna Gbordzoe shares four mistakes DMOs should avoid.

Behind the scenes of our 2025 40 Under 40 in Economic Development Awards celebration in D.C. ?? ?? We are excited to see the great things the winning class of 2025 will continue to do for this industry! https://lnkd.in/gkJ54VK3

The world of place marketing is always evolving—are you keeping up? ??? DCI’s blog has the latest insights, trends and challenges for marketers in tourism, economic development and talent attraction. Catch up below. Seven Strategies to Elevate Your Co-op Destination Marketing: https://lnkd.in/g7xQzvV8? Make Your Community Shine Through National Earned Media in 2025: https://lnkd.in/gCujNyfe?? ? Four Indications the MICE Market is Ready for a Comeback:? https://lnkd.in/g4E83qhM?? ? Balancing Power and the Planet: Steps to Improve Your Website’s Sustainability: https://lnkd.in/eNVDGKtP?

Introducing the 40 Under 40 in Economic Development Class of 2025! ?? DCI and Jorgenson Pace, Inc. were honored to celebrate these outstanding professionals at a ceremony during the International Economic Development Council. Join us in congratulating these rising stars on their dedication to innovation, leadership and building a more inclusive industry. The future is bright with these leaders at the helm! Learn more about them: https://buff.ly/4bh3BTq

The DCI team was winning at the HSMAI #AdrianAwards, honoring excellence in travel PR and marketing. ? Congrats to our clients that won awards! ?? Visit Baltimore Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau Explore St. Louis U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism